History Lessons: Parade Days

From the 1950s to the 1990s, U-M’s homecoming almost always included a parade of floats.
By Gregory Lucas-Myers, ’10

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Read time: < 1 minute

Homecoming weekend celebrations have existed in various forms on campus since the inaugural Alumni Game of 1897, which saw former football players face off against the current varsity squad. Yet one practice that happened from the 1950s to the 1990s no longer exists: a parade of floats through the streets of Ann Arbor. The local community, students, and alumni all took part in the festive event. To honor this weekend’s homecoming, here are some of our favorite parade photos from the past.

Be sure to take part in our Alumni Territory Homecoming Tailgate this weekend on Oct. 6. We’ll have food, games, special guests, and the Michigan Marching Band. Tickets are still available.


Gregory Lucas-Myers, ’10, is assistant editor of Michigan Alumnus.

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